Pierce Brosnan praises Callum Turner among rumored Bond candidates

Pierce Brosnan has thrown his weight behind Callum Turner to become the next James Bond, stating that the actor possesses the necessary "presence" and strength for the iconic role. The former 007, who portrayed Ian Fleming’s spy in four films between 1995 and 2002, spoke to Vanity Fair, as reported by Metro ^[1]. Brosnan admitted he is now simply an "audience member" eager to see who inherits the licence to kill, yet singled out Turner for specific praise.

The 73-year-old actor highlighted his previous professional relationship with Turner, having co-starred as father and son in the 2017 film The Only Living Boy in New York. According to the Independent ^[2], Brosnan described Turner as "so strong," noting that while he admires all the rumored candidates, including Josh O’Connor and Jack Lowden, his personal experience with Turner gives him unique insight. "They all have a voice and a physique, and a presence on film," Brosnan said, adding that the young men possess longevity as actors.

Turner, 36, has been a persistent rumor in the casting saga since Daniel Craig departed the franchise after No Time to Die in 2021. While Turner previously told The Hollywood Reporter he knew "as much as you do" about the process, recent developments suggest his involvement has intensified. Metro ^[1] reported that Turner recently resigned from TwentyTwo Films Ltd, a company he shares with wife Dua Lipa, which sources interpreted as a strategic move to prioritize the Bond commitment.

Brosnan also expressed excitement about the direction of the new films under director Denis Villeneuve. He described the Dune filmmaker as "iconoclastic" and "visionary," predicting that audiences would be "blown away" by his visceral and sensuous storytelling style. The Independent ^[2] noted Brosnan's admiration for Villeneuve's camera work and imagination, calling the upcoming project potentially "truly magnificent."

Meanwhile, other contenders remain tight-lipped but flattered. Josh O’Connor, recently spotted at an event in Cheltenham, told the BBC that being considered for the role was an "extraordinary" and "bizarre pinch me moment," though he confirmed there was nothing concrete to share. Jack Lowden, known for Slow Horses, previously described the rumors as "flattering." With an official announcement expected imminently, Brosnan’s endorsement adds significant weight to Turner’s candidacy, though he wished whoever lands the part the best of "life and strength and courage."